Steven Thoburn died of a heart attack in 2004

Greengrocer Steven Thoburn, 39, was convicted for selling goods only in imperial measures in 2001. He died of a heart attack three years later.

Tory MP Philip Davies has now tabled a House of Commons motion supporting moves to clear his name.

It follows an EU decision allowing traders to continue using pounds and ounces alongside metric measures.

'Real fighter'

Mr Davies, MP for Shipley in West Yorkshire, said: "Mr Thoburn was fighting for his customers and the rights of the British public to buy produce in the manner that they choose.

"He was a real fighter and he should be recognised for his efforts.

"I am strongly supporting the campaign calling for a posthumous pardon and I hope other MPs will back this motion."

The Early Day Motion, tabled on Thursday, also calls for traders to be allowed to sell goods in only imperial measures.

In May, the EU shelved plans to enforce metrication by 2009.